The Virginia Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk stretches 3 miles along the Atlantic coast of Virginia Beach, Virginia, running from 1st Street to 40th Street parallel to Atlantic Avenue. One of the widest and longest boardwalks on the East Coast of the United States, it features a 28-foot-wide concrete promenade accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, and inline skaters side by side. The boardwalk parallels a wide beach of fine Atlantic sand accessible at numerous points along the walk. The central zone between 17th and 25th Streets concentrates most activity: outdoor amphitheater stages, sand sculpting events, beach volleyball courts, arcade pavilions, seasonal restaurants, and the King Neptune Statue — a 24-foot bronze landmark at 31st Street that serves as the boardwalk's most photographed icon. A dedicated cycling lane runs the full 3-mile length of the boardwalk, and bicycle and surrey rentals are available at multiple points along Atlantic Avenue. During summer evenings the boardwalk fills with street performers, inline skaters, and a lively social atmosphere drawing both families and young adults. Free outdoor concerts are held regularly at the 17th Street Stage and at the 24th Street Park throughout the summer season. The annual Neptune Festival in late September brings a major sandsculpting competition, art exhibits, and entertainment to the boardwalk area, and September and early October offer excellent beach weather with significantly smaller crowds than the peak summer months. Beach parking at the oceanfront costs $6–10 per day in season.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Best time
- Morning walks; evenings in summer
Location
Atlantic Ave & 1st St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
36.8508, -75.9779 View on map
Highlights
- 3-mile concrete promenade — one of the widest and longest boardwalks on the East Coast
- King Neptune Statue — a 24-foot bronze landmark at 31st Street, the boardwalk's iconic feature
- Wide Atlantic beach with fine sand, volleyball courts, and lifeguarded swimming areas
- Free outdoor summer concerts at the 17th Street Stage and 24th Street Park
- Dedicated cycling lane runs the full 3-mile length of the boardwalk
Tips for visiting
- Early-morning walks before 8 AM allow the boardwalk to be enjoyed with very few other people
- Paid beach parking ($6–10/day) fills by 9 AM on summer weekends — arrive early or use the HRT bus
- Bicycle and surrey rentals are available from multiple outfitters along Atlantic Avenue
- The annual Neptune Festival in late September brings a sandsculpting competition and live entertainment
- September and early October offer warm water, smaller crowds, and comfortable daytime temperatures
When to visit
Early-morning visits in summer allow the beach and boardwalk to be enjoyed before the crowds arrive. September and October offer warm water temperatures, fewer visitors, and the Neptune Festival — the best overall combination of weather and crowd levels.
Accessibility
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is fully paved and accessible for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers. Beach access mats extend toward the waterline at several points along the boardwalk for visitors using wheelchairs. Accessible restroom facilities are available at the 17th Street and 24th Street park areas.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk free to use?
Yes — the boardwalk itself is free and open 24 hours. Beach parking charges apply in summer, and some events along the boardwalk may have admission fees.
How long is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk?
The boardwalk runs 3 miles from 1st Street to 40th Street. Walking the full length one way takes approximately 45–60 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Is cycling allowed on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk?
Yes — a dedicated bike lane runs the full length of the boardwalk. Cycling is restricted to specific designated lanes and hours; inline skating has its own designated lane adjacent to the bike path.